Click on map to open large map in new window (Map updated: 11 August 2009)

Click here to view an interactive map of the Northern Ireland dataset as currently collated by CEDaR.The map is generated through the NBN Gateway using their Interactive Mapping Tool.

This crustose twig epiphyte has tiny pink to red-brown discs little larger than the diminutive L. persimilis (described elsewhere). In fact these may easily occur together on twigs except that L. sambuci occurs more frequently on nutrient-impregnated bark and is particularly tolerant of limestone quarry dust. The notoriety of its occurrence on elder trees (Sambucus) provided its ‘species’ name. Under the microscope it is easily told by reference to the spore sacs (asci) which house 16-32 instead of the more usual eight spores. Throughout Ireland, but thinly scattered.

Key characteristics

Tiny ‘soft bark’ or twig lichen with small, pink to red-brown discs

A microscope squash of the disc shows 16-32 spores/ascus; tolerant of nutrient-rich bark.